Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SR126

Introduced
6/18/25  

Caption

Supporting an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to establish that election spending may be regulated to ensure that every resident may exercise the rights to free speech, political participation and meaningful representation, and to protect republican self-government and federalism.

Impact

If adopted, this amendment would grant both states and Congress the authority to enact reasonable regulations concerning election spending. This move could potentially reshape how campaigns are funded, ensuring that the voices of individual citizens are not drowned out by the financial influence of corporations and political action committees. It reaffirms the role that states have in modifying constitutional principles to protect individual liberties and enhance self-governance.

Summary

Senate Resolution 126 calls for an amendment to the Constitution of the United States that would allow for the regulation of election spending. The authors of the resolution argue that regulating such spending is essential to preserving the rights of residents to engage in free speech, participate in politics, and ensure meaningful representation. The resolution emphasizes a strong interest in fostering vibrant political debate while safeguarding against corruption and safeguarding the integrity of federalism across states.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR126 appears to be generally supportive among those who prioritize campaign finance reform and seek to uphold democratic values. Proponents view the resolution as a necessary step to mitigate the influence of money in politics, which is often seen as a threat to representative democracy. However, there may also be counterarguments regarding the implications of such regulation on free speech, particularly from those who believe that limiting spending could infringe on the fundamental rights of individuals and organizations to voice their opinions in electoral processes.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the broader implications of this amendment. Critics may argue that it could infringe on the First Amendment rights associated with political speech and financial contributions to campaigns. Additionally, the differentiation between natural persons and legally recognized entities in terms of regulation may lead to further debates on what constitutes fair and balanced election practices. Overall, the resolution fosters discussions on the balance between campaign finance and constitutional rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SR212

Supporting an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to establish that election spending may be regulated to ensure that every resident may exercise the rights to free speech, political participation and meaningful representation, and to protect republican self-government and federalism.

PA HR317

Supporting an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to establish that election spending may be regulated to ensure that every resident may exercise the rights to free speech, political participation and meaningful representation, and to protect republican self-government and federalism.

PA SR52

A Concurrent Resolution establishing a delegation to represent the Commonwealth at the Amendment Convention pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States entitled the Article V Amendment Convention and limited to proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to grant State Legislatures authority to countermand and rescind any mandate issued by any Branch of the Federal Government or their agencies that encroach on states' rights and the personal liberties of their citizens.

PA SR51

A Concurrent Resolution directing the Congress of the United States to call for an amendment convention pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States that shall be entitled the Countermand Amendment Convention and limited to proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to grant state legislatures authority to countermand and rescind any mandate issued by any branch of the Federal Government or its agencies that encroaches on states' rights and the personal liberties of their citizens.

PA SR77

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States limited to proposing amendments that impose fiscal restraints on the Federal Government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the Federal Government and limit the terms of office for its officials and for members of Congress.

PA HR106

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States limited to proposing amendments that impose fiscal restraints on the Federal Government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the Federal Government and limit the terms of office for its officials and for members of Congress.

PA HR128

Urging the Congress of the United States to pass a constitutional amendment that provides that neither slavery nor involuntary servitude may be imposed as a punishment for a crime.

PA HR183

A Concurrent Resolution calling for a convention under Article V of the Constitution of the United States to consider amendments that limit the number of terms that members of Congress may serve and establish and limit the terms of office for United States Supreme Court Justices.

PA SR225

A Concurrent Resolution calling for a convention under Article V of the Constitution of the United States to consider amendments that limit the number of terms that members of Congress may serve.

PA HB458

Providing for a Constitutional Convention with limited powers, for a referendum on the question and for the selection, nomination and election of delegates; defining the powers, duties and operation of the Constitutional Convention; conferring powers and imposing duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth, officers of the General Assembly and county boards of elections; providing for a referendum on the Constitutional Convention's report; imposing a penalty; and making an appropriation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.